Prenatal Ultrasound Services at UPMC Magee-Womens in Central Pa.

Routine prenatal ultrasounds, also called sonograms, have been used for many years to create a visual image of your baby, placenta, uterus and other pelvic organs. UPMC in Central Pa. provides a full range of ultrasound services using the latest, most advanced technology.

At UPMC Magee-Womens in Central Pa., you have access to state-of-the-art 4-D ultrasound technology that allows you and your physician to see a detailed, lifelike image of your growing baby. Your physician may recommend a 4-D ultrasound if he or she is concerned about a problem with your baby or if you are having a medical procedure that requires ultrasound guidance.

Your physician may recommend a 4-D ultrasound in several circumstances, including:

• Diagnosing pregnancy
• Determining fetal age
• Diagnosing congenital abnormalities
• Evaluating the position of your placenta
• Determining a multiple pregnancy

Safety

Studies show that 3-D and 4-D ultrasounds are safe during pregnancy. However, 3-D and 4-D ultrasound machines release higher levels of energy than traditional ultrasound machines. Therefore, it is recommended that 3-D and 4-D ultrasounds only be performed at the request of your physician when medically necessary.

What to Expect

Ultrasound technology sends high-frequency sound waves into your body and displays the echoes of those sound waves as real-time images on a video screen. Ultrasound scanners consist of a computer, a video display screen and a small, handheld device used to scan the body, called a transducer.

You will be asked to lie back on an exam table. Your technician will put a lubricating jelly on your abdomen that allows the transducer to slide easily back and forth. Your technician will conduct your exam by moving the transducer around your abdomen to capture images of your baby, placenta and other internal structures. 

Need more information?

If you are looking for 3-D or 4-D ultrasound services, contact UPMC in central Pa. to schedule an appointment. With locations throughout Central Pa., expert help is often a quick call and short drive away. 

Phone: 717-231-8472 

Talk to your doctor if you have questions about prenatal testing.